8 Reasons to Move to Austin

In the last 20 years, Austin's population has more than doubled, and that growth doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. People are flocking to this beautiful vibrant city from all over the United States to start a new life in the capital of the Lone Star State. But why move to Austin, Texas?  First of all, there's the low cost of living, thriving job market, beautiful weather, and the bounty of things to do here — but that's only scratching the surface.   

Here are eight reasons to move to Austin Texas: 

1. The weather is perfect.

If you enjoy warm summers and mild winters, the weather alone may be enough to persuade you to move to Austin. Temperatures during the summer can get up into the 90s, but there are plenty of natural swimming areas and other ways to cool off all around town. Winters may see snow on occasion, but you'll only drop down below freezing about 25 times or less during the season, meaning you can enjoy the city's outdoor activities year-round. Austin's rainiest months tend to be May and September.

2. The job market is on fire. 

Ask anyone and they'll tell you that one of the top reasons to move to Austin is the job market. The unemployment rate here is typically much lower than it is in the rest of the country. The city is also called "Silicon Hills" or the "Next Silicon Valley" because of all the tech opportunities, ranging from promising start-ups to established Fortune 500 companies. As a matter of fact, many big tech companies are either opening offices in and around Austin or moving their headquarters here. Companies with offices here include:

• Amazon
• Apple
• Google
• IBM
• Tesla
• eBay
• Oracle
• Texas Instruments
• Intel 
• Dell
• Resideo 
• Microsoft 

3. The cost of living is relatively low. 

Not only are jobs abundant, but the average annual salary in Austin is higher than it is for the nation. Combine that with the low cost of living, and living here can be the best choice for your finances.  Throw in the fact that Texas doesn't have a state income tax, and we can't see any reason why you wouldn't want to move to Austin. Everything from public transportation to groceries tends to be a little cheaper here. 

4. There's a small town vibe.  

At 326.51 square miles, Austin is a sprawling city with an even bigger metropolitan area, and it's home to nearly a million people — but somehow, it still feels like a small town. Maybe it's that infamous Texas hospitality. Maybe it's the fact that small businesses thrive here next to large national chains. Maybe it's the charming and unique neighborhoods that make up the area. Maybe it's the super low crime rate. Whatever the reason, you can enjoy the big city life without all the hustle and bustle that usually comes with it. 

5. You can enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city. 

Cities and ample green spaces don't always go hand-in-hand, but that's not the case here. Living in Austin, TX means having the great outdoors at your fingertips 365 days a year. First of all, Downtown Austin and many of the surrounding neighborhoods are known for their walkability, so there's no excuse for not getting out there and getting some exercise or fresh air. The city also has bike trails that meander throughout. The Colorado River runs through the city, and there are Lake Austin and Lady Bird Lake, which means plenty of opportunities for boating and water sports. Zilker Park sits on over 350 acres inside the city limits, and it has everything from botanical gardens to a year-round natural public swimming spot.  

6. It's a great place to get an education. 

Several school districts make up Austin's public education system, and most of them are highly-rated. Some are considered the best in Texas, and some of the local high schools are often counted among the best in the entire nation. Austin is also a college town. It's home to the University of Texas, and many students choose to stick around after graduation. There are also numerous other colleges and universities in the area, like Saint Edward's, Southern University - Austin, and the Art Institute of Austin. 

7. There's a vibrant culture and food scene. 

The motto here is "Keep Austin Weird," and residents have done a good job of doing just that. You won't find a more unique culture anywhere else in the United States. Austin is a city where tech executives, artists, college students, young families, and everyone else in between coexist. Independent shops and restaurants thrive. It's also the "Live Music Capital of the World." As for the food, well, you'll find a little bit of everything from upscale surf and turf to cozy barbecue joints to food trucks serving up some of the best international cuisine you've ever tasted in your life. 

8. The people are the best.

Without a doubt, the best reason to move to Austin is the city's people. Texas hospitality is real. This is the place where you'll get to know your neighbors. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming of people from all walks of life. There's a real sense of community, and people work hard to preserve it. Austin is also considered one of the most charitable cities in the United States. 

Are you ready to move to Austin? Realtor Heather Burke can help make that dream a reality. Contact me today at (512) 434-9004 or [email protected].